What makes Pilate so powerful?

Morrison suggests that Pilate’s supernatural powers, great strength, lasting youthfulness, and boundless love come from African-American cultural traditions. Indeed, as Milkman realizes at the end of his journey, Pilate is the only human being he knows who is able to fly without ever leaving the ground.

Why does Pilate cut her hair?

Pilate has an irrepressible love for her nephew, who is the only one in the family capable of perpetuating and cultivating the Dead family tree. After keeping it a secret long enough to have baby, Pilate chops off her hair and decides not to hide anymore, but not without some serious self-reflection and soul-searching.

What was the story of the song of Solomon?

Song of Solomon explores the quest for cultural identity. Based on the African-American folktale about enslaved Africans who escape slavery by flying back to Africa, it tells the story of Macon “Milkman” Dead, a young man alienated from himself and estranged from his family, his community, and his historical and cultural roots.

Who is Hagar in the song of Solomon?

Like her biblical namesake—a servant who, after bearing Abraham’s son is thrown out of the house by his barren wife, Sarah—Hagar is used and abandoned. Her plight demonstrates a central theme in Song of Solomon: the inevitable abandonment of women who love men too much.

Who is Macon Dead I in song of Solomon?

Macon Jr.’s father and Milkman’s grandfather, Macon Dead I is also known as Jake. Macon Dead I was abandoned in infancy when his father, Solomon, flew back to Africa and his mother, Ryna, went insane.

Who is singing bird in song of Solomon?

In this way, Morrison’s Circe connects Milkman’s past and future. Milkman’s grandmother and Macon Dead I’s wife. Sing is an Indian woman also known as Singing Bird. Sing’s name commands Macon Dead I, Pilate, and Milkman to connect the missing links of their family history through Solomon’s song.